Voyaging by train to Churchill from Winnipeg can be an enduring pilgrimage. A minimum of 36 hours before one arrives in the historic wooden depot in Churchill...and that’s being optimistic. So, disembarking in the middle of the middle of the trip can really lift the spirits of travelers.

Natural Habitat aurora trip guide Karen Walker and a recent group heading to Churchill to view aurora and get a feel for northern living and climate found a gem in the heart of the Manitoba back country…just off the tracks. Arriving on Louis Riel day in Thompson, the group took a coach to the magnificent site of Pisew Falls and made the short trek down into the forest for a close look from observation platforms. The frigid cold of the Winter veils the falls and rushing river in an icy covering. Quite a magnificent sight!

Pisew Falls covered with ice. Photo Karen Walker

On a beautiful, blue-sky day, the group spent time exploring Pisew Falls Provincial Park, the encompassing forested area around the falls. The travelers trekked along the trail in the winter wonderland, snow-covered boreal forest to the impressive Rotary suspension bridge spanning the Grass River. After sliding down the snow covered stairway, some folks continued across the bridge to the top of the waterfall. ” It was so calm above the falls, then the water gushes over the edge. The frozen stalactites were beautiful.” ; reported Karen. A memorable stop in time …at least it feels like time is stopped in these conditions.

This area has always been one of my favorite places on my many, many train treks to Churchill for Summer expeditions...I love the secluded feel of the spot buried down in the forest. Birding here and at Sasikew rapids not far down the road was always a welcome break from the confines of the train. The transient beauty would get travelers in the mood for even more wildness in Churchill. The Winter feel only adds to the mystique of this very special hideaway in the deep woods of Manitoba.